Built for this
When Jadeyn learned she could make a career of the projects she enjoyed as a high school intern—designing graphics, planning events and connecting with local businesses—she didn’t hesitate to pursue public relations at Northwestern. The adaptable format of the major allowed her to choose classes specific to her interests in design and writing, which she then pursued through intensive practicums in the field. Now a marketing + communications coordinator for Habitat for Humanity, Jadeyn is grateful for the strong foundation that Northwestern built.What are some of your responsibilities at Habitat for Humanity?
One of my favorite things about my job is the variety of work I get to do to promote our programs, tell homeowner stories and encourage people to get involved in our mission. I manage our social media accounts, update our website, design graphics, send communications, take photos, edit videos, write news releases and plan events.
In what ways did you grow professionally at Northwestern?
I had the opportunity to be the photo editor for the Beacon beginning my sophomore year. Through that work study, I learned a lot about project management, like setting timelines and deadlines, articulating a vision and the importance of timely internal communication.
Any field experiences?
I completed two practicums for public relations. One was for the Dutch Heritage Boosters—I wrote and designed a series of informational signs to hang outside the Little White Store. The other was for the Dutch American Heritage Museum; our team photographed museum items to make social media posts, a brochure and other content. I also interned at Tamar Productions, an event management company in Chicago. I learned so much about event planning through that experience.
How did NWC prepare you for what you’re doing now?
The public relations program is filled with real-world examples and projects. I wasn’t scared to write my first press release for Habitat because I’d written so many in my Media Writing class. I was prepared to use the Habitat camera on a construction site because I’d taken photos using a similar camera during concerts for Northwestern’s music department. I’m so grateful for all the opportunities I had to practice the skills I was learning.
What did you come to value about your NWC experience?
There’s something so special about doing life with your best friends, whether that’s sitting in silence together as you all prepare for finals or knocking on each other’s doors to go get tacos at midnight. You’re learning, growing and having the absolute best time together. Now that we’re spread across the country and it takes months to find a time that we can all meet up, I value that time we had in community so highly.